Lionel Messi's Father Dies At 68: Jorge Messi’s Illness, Cause Of Death …

Lionel Messi's Father, Jorge Messi, Dies at 68

Lionel Messi's father, Jorge Messi, has died at the age of 68, according to reports. Jorge reportedly passed away in Rosario, Argentina, after undergoing treatment for a chronic illness. The news emerged on Saturday, August 8, with reports stating that Jorge Messi died at around 10 p.m. At a clinic in Rosario. Jorge played a major role in Lionel Messi's life and football career, supporting his son from his early days in Rosario through his rise to becoming one of the biggest names in world football. He served as Lionel's agent and was closely involved in major decisions throughout the footballer's career. Jorge was particularly influential during Lionel's early development in Rosario and remained involved as his son moved into professional football and eventually became a global superstar. The exact cause of Jorge Messi's death has not been officially confirmed by the Messi family. Reports have stated that Jorge had been receiving treatment for a chronic illness, but the family had previously chosen not to disclose the specific nature of his health condition publicly. The uncertainty surrounding his health began in June, when the Messi family issued a statement confirming that Jorge was undergoing medical treatment. Jorge Messi's health became a major talking point during the 2026 FIFA World Cup after rumors about his condition began circulating. The Messi family subsequently addressed the situation and strongly criticized speculation surrounding Jorge's health. The family also asked the public and media to respect their privacy during what was a difficult period. As Lionel Messi said at the time, "I’ve been through some difficult and complicated days," when asked about his emotional state after a match. Lionel Messi's first club, Newell's Old Boys, has paid tribute to Jorge Messi with an emotional message. "The Club Atlético Newell's Old Boys bids farewell with deep sorrow and grief to Jorge Messi, who passed away at the age of 68 in the city of Rosario. A recognized leproso supporter, businessman, and father of the captain of the Argentine national team, Lionel Andrés Messi," the club said in a statement. The club described Jorge as the "pillar and the person who, with vision, rigor, and affection, supported the career of the greatest player of all time alongside his wife, Celia Cuccittini." The statement added, "Thank you for teaching him to love these colors. The Board of Directors, members, athletes, and the entire Newell's family warmly embrace Celia, Lionel, Rodrigo, Matías, and María Sol, as well as all their loved ones and those close to them in this difficult moment." Jorge Messi's death marks the loss of one of the most important figures in Lionel Messi's personal and professional life. While Lionel became the face of one of the greatest careers in football history, Jorge remained an important figure behind the scenes, helping guide his son's career from his early years in Rosario. Jorge was the one who took the brave step to move his son to Europe when neither Newell's Old Boys nor River Plate wanted to pay for Lionel's necessary growth treatment. This bold decision led to the famous contract with FC Barcelona, setting the stage for Lionel to become one of the greatest players of all time. For all that Lionel became, there was always Jorge, the father who stood just beyond the spotlight. He was there when his son was still a boy in Rosario, when the family made the difficult decision to leave Argentina for Barcelona, and through the years when his son's name grew from that of a promising young player into one of the most famous in the world. Jorge helped steer the career, handled the business, and absorbed much of the noise that came with his son's success, but his importance to Lionel went beyond contracts or negotiations. He was a father first, a trusted voice and a familiar presence in a life that became increasingly unfamiliar.

Reactions and Tributes

Tributes have been pouring in for Jorge Messi, with many in the football world paying their respects to the man who helped shape Lionel Messi's career. Newell's Old Boys, Lionel Messi's boyhood club, has led the tributes, describing Jorge as a "recognized leproso supporter, businessman, and father of the Argentine national team captain, Lionel Andrés Messi." The club's statement added, "Jorge was the pillar and the person who supported with vision, rigor, and affection the career of the greatest player of all time alongside his wife, Celia Cuccittini. His constant companionship and behind-the-scenes leadership were essential in backing every step of Lionel, from his beginnings at Malvinas to the pinnacle of world football glory." The football world is mourning the loss of a man who was not only a devoted father but also a key figure in the sport. As the news of Jorge Messi's death continues to sink in, the football world is coming together to pay its respects to a man who played a significant role in shaping the career of one of the greatest players of all time. Lionel Messi's father may be gone, but his legacy will live on through the countless memories and achievements of his son.